2003 BMW 520 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520.
Because 2003 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
